Hundreds of passengers were stuck in "queues from hell" at Auckland International Airport this afternoon after a suspected prohibited item was found during screening.
Video has emerged showing frustrated passengers squeezed into the international departures area tonight. Eight flights were delayed because of the security issue.
Aviation Security spokesman Mike Richards said an officer had identified the item at the international aviation screening point.
"Because the suspected item was not immediately found it is normal security protocol to temporarily halt all screening and review CCTV footage.
"Avsec was able to contain its investigation to just the screening point and once satisfied there was no security threat, was able to resume screening."
